5. Tap brush tip in paint and swirl on paper towel to load evenly. Use as little paint as possible. Swirl lightly on stencil, then move over cut opening. Continue swirling until space is evenly colored. If preferred, use pouncing motion instead.

6. Shade or accent edges of stencil by swirling brush around edge without crossing center. Swirl first in one direction, then the other, for a smooth look. Work darker colors over lighter ones.

7. If paint smears or smudges under stencil edge, move stencil over to cover and paint again for sharp edge.

8. Most mistakes are caused by too much paint on brush.

9. Following manufacturer’s instructions, clean stencils and brushes before storing.